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learned helplessness  

Definition

  • Learned helplessness is a behavior pattern involving a maladaptive response characterized by avoidance of challenges, negative affect, and the collapse of problem-solving strategies when obstacles arise. Three components are necessary for learned helplessness to be present: contingency, cognition, and behavior. [Source: Encyclopedia of Human Development; Learned Helplessness]

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https://concepts.sagepub.com/social-science/concept/learned_helplessness

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